HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Shaquille O’Neal will not be plying his trade in the state of Georgia for the Atlanta Hawks next season.

The Hawks won’t meet O’Neal’s salary demands because they would be over the luxury tax threshold and have to fork over multi-million dollar penalty payments to the league.

This is a wise choice.

O’Neal – an established veteran and future Hall of Famer – is difficult for any coach, especially a first year man like Larry Drew. The five-man has clashed with several of his old sideline bosses such as Phil Jackson, Pat Riley, and Terry Porter.

And his affinity for minutes and touches would likely upset a young and temperamental frontline of Al Horford, Josh Smith, and Marvin Williams.

Hopefully, Atlanta will consider exceeding the luxury tax and investing in the right player(s), though. After all, their starters are talented, but need support off the bench.

To compete in the beefed-up Eastern Conference, the Hawks must open their wallets and spend –just on the appropriate personnel.